Tips For Picking Your Wedding Cake

If you’re at the point of wedding planning where it’s all about the cake, then you are no doubt in need of this article ‘Tips for picking your wedding cake’, let’s get in to it…

Main Image Photo Credit: SD Cakes

Let’s be honest, picking a wedding cake sounds straightforward, but there’s a bit more to it than just picking a flavour and hoping for the best. If you’re in the middle of your planning journey and wondering when, where, or how to start with your cake, I’ve got you covered.

Here’s what to know (and what nobody tells you).

1. When Should You Start Looking?

This really depends on what kind of cake and cake maker you’re after. If you’re eyeing up a bespoke cake designer, the kind of pro that only takes one wedding a day and books out months (sometimes years!) in advance, then get in early. Like, as soon as you know your date and venue, get on with it. (No pressure)

If you’re going with a wedding cake supplier that does a higher volume or multiple weddings a week, you’ll probably be fine starting around the 8-12 month mark. But the earlier you start, the more choice you’ll have.

Photo Credit: Empire Bespoke Cakes

2. Size Matters (It Really Does)

The size of your cake comes down to numbers.

• A classic three-tier will typically feed around 100 guests.
• Five tiers or extra kitchen cakes are your go to for 200+ guests.

Also, not everyone eats cake (shocking, I know), and some couples like to save a tier for their first anniversary, a christening, or just a random Sunday down the line, because sometimes you just need cake! But it is totally your call!

Photo Credit: SD Cakes

3. Flavours – aka The Best Bit

Now this is where I personally lose the run of myself. How are couples supposed to pick just one or two flavours?

Some couples love the classics; 

• Chocolate biscuit cake (YES, Irish royalty)
• Lemon drizzle (light and fresh)
• Red velvet (for when you want a cake to feel fancy)
• Vanilla (the classic crowd pleaser)
• Fruitcake (hard pass from me, but you do you!)

But there are also new trends like:

• Dubai chocolate (lush) 
• Pistachio and rose (new and très chic)
• Dark Chocolate & Espresso (For couples who love a little coffee kick)
• White Chocolate & Raspberry ( The perfect combo: Creamy, fruity, and just the right amount of sweet)
• Baileys Chocolate Cake (A smooth, creamy Irish twist)

Most wedding cake suppliers will have a signature list, and many offer tasting boxes (little slices of heaven delivered to your door). My advice? Order one, cancel your plans, and have a tasting party.

4. Let’s Talk Icing + Finish

The style of cake you want is often tied into the icing and decoration. The “naked cake” (basically no icing and dressed with flowers) was the star of the show for a while, but now buttercream textures, sugar craft, gold leaf, hand-painting, and even pressed flowers are having a moment.

This is where your wedding cake suppliers style comes in. Some specialise in rustic, others in fine sugar detail, Your cake should match your vibe, so find a supplier who gets it. And remember, high-skill work = higher price tag (totally worth it, but good to know!)

Photo Credit: Custom Cakes 

5. To Topper or Not to Topper

Personal choice here but you may want a simple floral finish, or go for a custom topper with your initials, pets, hobbies…you name it. Etsy is your best friend here, they have a goldmine of affordable cake toppers. Loads of great small businesses creating fab pieces that won’t break the bank.

6. The Logistics: Delivery + Set-Up

This is the bit couples often forget. Ask your wedding cake supplier:

• Do you deliver and set up the cake?
• Do I need to collect it?
• Does the venue dress it on the day?

Some wedding cake suppliers will deliver and style the cake at your venue (ideal). Others are collection-only, which means you’ll need to rope someone in the day before (and no, your aunt with the shaky hands is not the one for this job). Personally, I’d always opt for professional delivery as I’ve seen enough cake disasters in my time to know it’s worth it. It’s worth every cent to avoid a frosting-related meltdown.

7. And What If You’re Not Into Cake?

No problem. There are so many alternatives now such as donut towers, cupcake stands, cheese wheels, macaron pyramids… honestly, the list goes on. 

The rule? Do what makes you happy. If that means cutting into a wheel of brie instead of a tiered sponge, then so be it.  But we’ll save that for another post!

Photo Credit: Custom Cakes 

Final Thoughts

Picking your cake should be a fun part of the planning process as it’s about flavour, style, and personality. Don’t stress about what’s expected. Do what feels right for you.

If you’re just starting out and feeling a little overwhelmed with all the bits and bobs, grab a copy of my book. It’s a textbook for getting married in Ireland and walks you through the full planning journey.

Need help picking a supplier? Check out my Featured Wedding Cake Suppliers, these are the ones I trust, handpicked and recommend every time.